Exploring Stillwater’s Vibrant Sports Scene

Exploring Stillwater’s Vibrant Sports Scene

Stillwater, Minnesota, boasts a rich and diverse sports culture that caters to athletes of all ages and interests. From high school teams to community programs, there’s something for everyone in our town.

High School Athletics

Stillwater Area High School, home of the Ponies, offers a wide array of sports programs. The school has a storied history, being the oldest high school in Minnesota and the first to be accredited by the North Central Association in 1903. Over the years, Stillwater teams have secured numerous state championships, reflecting the school’s commitment to athletic excellence. Students can participate in sports such as baseball, basketball, football, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, volleyball, and wrestling. For more information on specific teams and schedules, visit the school’s athletics page.

Community Sports Programs

Beyond the high school level, Stillwater offers various community sports programs:

Stillwater Mountain Bike Team

Founded in 2013, the Stillwater Mountain Bike Team has grown from 26 student-athletes to over 90 members. Competing under the Minnesota Cycling Association, the team emphasizes camaraderie and lifelong skills through training and racing. Open to students in grades 6-12, the team balances competition with fun, fostering friendships that last a lifetime. Training begins each July, with races held from August through October. More details can be found on their website.

Stillwater Area Lacrosse Association

The Stillwater Area Lacrosse Association promotes the sport of lacrosse within the Stillwater School District. They offer quality instruction and coaching for both boys and girls, emphasizing fundamentals, skills, and strategies. The association provides a safe and fun environment, focusing on self-esteem, sportsmanship, fitness, and achievement. For more information, visit their website.

Chilkoot Velo

Chilkoot Velo is a community-based cycling group in the Greater Stillwater area. Since 2009, they’ve united cyclists of all skill levels for group rides, social events, and competitive challenges. With over 100 annual rides tailored to different paces and styles, there’s a place for everyone—from casual riders to seasoned athletes. Learn more and become a member at their website.

Recreational Facilities

Stillwater is home to several top-notch recreational facilities that support various sports activities:

St. Croix Valley Recreation Center

Located at 1675 Market Drive, the St. Croix Valley Recreation Center is a multi-purpose facility promoting health and wellness for all ages. It features a 363′ x 245′ dome field house and two NHL-style ice sheets. The center offers activities such as soccer leagues, open walk/run sessions, adult hockey leagues, open skating, and group skating lessons. For more information, visit their website.

The LumberYard Hockey & Sports Center

The LumberYard is a sports training, recreation, and retail destination in Stillwater. The facility includes a studio ice rink, goalie training rink, fieldhouse/turf area, skating treadmill, shooting/puckhandling area, full gym, viewing deck, meeting rooms, lounge with concession area, and a retail sporting goods store. They offer programs and activities for teams and individual athletes involved in hockey, lacrosse, soccer, baseball, and other sports. More details can be found on their website.

Whether you’re a student-athlete, a recreational player, or a sports enthusiast, Stillwater’s vibrant sports scene offers numerous opportunities to get involved, stay active, and be part of a thriving community.